The Best Bahamian Islands and Where to Stay for Your Dream Vacation

Nestled amidst the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea lies a tropical paradise like no other – the Bahamas. With its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich cultural heritage, the Bahamas beckon travelers from around the globe to experience the beauty and serenity of its islands. Whether you're seeking relaxation on powdery white sands or thrilling adventures beneath the waves, the Bahamian archipelago has something to offer everyone.

This post contains affiliate links which means that at no extra cost to you, we could earn a few percent commission if you book at any of the accommodations we recommend.

---

The Best Bahamian Islands and Where to Stay for your Dream Vacation

In this guide, we'll embark on a journey to explore the best Bahamian islands, each with its unique charm and allure. From the bustling streets of Nassau to the tranquil shores of the Exuma Cays, we'll traverse these sun-kissed havens and discover the top attractions that make them so special. And to make your trip even more memorable, we'll recommend the perfect places to stay, ranging from luxury resorts to cozy vacation rentals. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the Bahamas, where your dream vacation awaits.

The Bahamas is an archipelago comprising over 700 pristine islands and cays. Known for some of the bluest water in the world, powdery white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, this tropical haven is a dream destination for travelers seeking sun, sea, and serenity.

The Bahamas boasts a rich cultural heritage influenced by African, British, and Bahamian traditions, reflected in its music, cuisine, and warm hospitality. Visitors can indulge in an array of activities, from snorkeling and diving to swimming with the famous Bahamian pigs. For those craving relaxation, there are luxurious resorts and boutique hideaways, while adventurers can explore national parks, historical sites, and vibrant local markets.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo adventure, the Bahamas' natural beauty, friendly locals, and diverse accommodations make it a paradise waiting to be explored. Let's explore some of the best islands and the top spots to stay!

---

Option 1: New Providence Island

Good for: Resort Lovers

Nassau, the bustling capital of the Bahamas, is a dynamic blend of history, culture, and breathtaking coastal beauty. Located on New Providence Island, Nassau is the gateway to the Bahamas' tropical wonders and serves as a vibrant hub for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. With its colorful colonial architecture, lively markets, and vibrant street art, Nassau offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern excitement. Explore historic sites like Fort Charlotte or stroll down Bay Street, known for its duty-free shopping and local crafts. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can embark on underwater adventures in the nearby coral reefs and blue holes, while culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Junkanoo, a lively Bahamian festival celebrated with colorful parades and vibrant music.

This island boasts numerous world-renowned resorts making it a perfect option for our resort lovers. The most well-known of these is the Atlantis Resort situated on picture perfect Paradise Island. With numerous accommodation options, our pick is The Royal at Atlantis. This is the main tower of this iconic resort and includes direct access to the resorts waterparks and pools, dolphin cay, and assortment of entertainment and dining options.

Make a Reservation

Another option found on Paradise Island is for our friends that enjoy All-Inclusive resorts. RIU Palace Paradise Island includes everything you could ever need right at your fingertips. From long walks on the beach, to drinks at the swim-up bar, this adult-only resort will make you never want to leave! Choose from five different restaurants and enjoy the variety of entertainment options awaiting you.

Make a Reservation

If you prefer a luxury option in Nassau, head over to the SLS at Baha Mar. SLS Hotels elevate the art of hospitality to a new level of sophistication. This luxurious oasis seamlessly merges opulent design, unparalleled service, and a sense of community, offering an enticing haven for discerning travelers worldwide. Nestled on the prestigious Baha Mar Boulevard in Nassau, SLS Baha Mar boasts meticulously designed rooms, world-class decor, and unforgettable culinary and nightlife adventures. Discover the epitome of Bahamian luxury at SLS Baha Mar.

Make a Reservation

---

2. Grand Bahama Island

Good for: Getting Lost in Nature

Grand Bahama Island, the northernmost of the Bahamas' major islands, is a captivating destination known for its stunning beaches, lush natural landscapes, and the vibrant city of Freeport. With a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, Grand Bahama Island beckons travelers seeking a diverse range of experiences. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Grand Bahama Island, Freeport is the island's main city and the gateway to its treasures. Here, you'll discover a vibrant blend of Bahamian culture, lively entertainment, and picturesque waterfront views. The city is home to various attractions and activities including Port Lucaya Marketplace, a shopper's paradise, offering duty-free boutiques, local crafts, and a wide range of dining options. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the island's lush landscapes, especially at Lucayan National Park. Explore the park's extensive underwater cave system, home to one of the world's longest explored underwater cave systems. Grand Bahama Island boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean. In Freeport, you can relax on beautiful beaches like Taino Beach and Xanadu Beach, where crystal-clear waters and soft sands invite you to unwind.

Most stays on this island reflect its laid-back attitude. Here you will find an assortment of villa-style hotels and accommodations like Pelican Bay Hotel. From the charming waterfront Sabor Restaurant and Bar to a plethora of dining options, bars, shops, live entertainment, and thrilling activities like the Dolphin Experience, scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing—all await just a short stroll away. If you're seeking sun and sand, you'll find two miles of pristine white sand beach just across the street. Additionally, they offer a full-service spa, four "Grand Slam" surface tennis courts, and a casino to cater to your every desire.

Make a Reservation

If you prefer your own space while away, try Dolphin Cove. Dolphin Cove is a 36 unit-condo hotel specializing in a food centric getaway for adults only. Their onsite restaurant serves up the finest cuisine from award-winning Bahamian chefs. With an assortment of things to do like swimming with the stingrays on Sandy Cay, swimming with pigs, jumping into Owls Hole, a thirty-foot drop into a crystal-clear freshwater cave, and snorkeling adventures, this is the perfect retreat to enjoy the natural beauty of the Bahamas.

Make a Reservation

---

3. The Exuma Cays

Good for: Adventurers

The Exuma Cays (pronounced keys) are a tropical paradise renowned for natural splendor. This stunning archipelago, consisting of over 365 islands and cays, boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches, and an abundance of marine life. Exuma is particularly famous for its unique attractions, including the unforgettable swimming pigs at Pig Beach, the mesmerizing Thunderball Grotto, and the protected waters of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. This is an adventurers' paradise! Be sure to book a captain or rent your own boat, as the best way to explore is by sea!

The main island in the Exumas is Great Exuma where you will find an airport in Georgetown. This area is filled with unique villas and holiday homes to enjoy your stay. Point of View is a magnificent holiday house located right outside Georgetown with sweeping views of Stocking Island and Elizabeth Harbour! Located in a gated community, this holiday home has everything you need at your fingertips as well as a variety of community amenities like a gym, sauna, two pools, and a private beach! Enjoy lounging on your own private deck to take in the beautiful blue water views.

Make a Reservation

Just a short drive south of Georgetown, you will cross the bridge into Little Exuma. Here you will find Sunset Cove, a beautiful holiday home nestled amongst the mangroves. Lounge in the hammocks on your own private beach, or enjoy a sunset kayak steps from your doorstep. Rent a car to be able to explore the plethora of white sandy beaches surrounding you. With three bedrooms able to accommodate up to ten guests, this is an ideal spot to host your next family vacation.

Make a Reservation

Just a bit further south along the Queen's Highway, we find our last Exuma spot. If you've dreamed of lounging on the pristine white beaches or swimming in those famous turquoise waters, this is the place for you! Tropical View Villas are holiday homes situated just a two minute walk from the gorgeous Tropic of Cancer Beach. Each home comes with everything you need for a relaxing stay. But what makes the Exumas so special are those picture perfect beaches. I've never seen more beautiful water that begs you to jump on in!

Make a Reservation

---

4. The Abacos

Good for: Boating and Fishing

The Abacos beckon avid anglers and boating enthusiasts with their irresistible charm. Known as one of the world's top sportfishing destinations, these tranquil waters teem with a rich variety of fish species, from marlin and tuna to bonefish and snapper. Set sail from charming settlements like Marsh Harbour and Hope Town, where you'll find well-equipped marinas and friendly locals eager to share fishing tips. The Abacos offer an array of boating adventures, from deep-sea excursions to serene bonefishing in the shallows. With calm seas and countless hidden cays to explore, it's no wonder these islands are a boater's dream. Whether you're a seasoned angler in search of the "big one" or a casual boater seeking picturesque anchorages and crystal-clear snorkeling spots, the Abacos provide an idyllic playground for those who cherish the open sea. Your fishing and boating dreams find their perfect home in the tranquil waters of the Abacos.

Our first dreamy stay is found at Elbow Reef in Hope Town. This charming boutique hotel is nestled on the serene shores of Elbow Cay. You can fly directly into Marsh Harbour and take the ferry over to this gorgeous stay. Escape the hectic pace of everyday life and immerse yourself in an oasis of tranquility, where you can unwind amidst the breathtaking beauty of one of the Bahamas' most enchanting and unique islands. Awaken to the soothing melody of ocean waves in one of the eight luxurious suites. This property can also be rented out in its entirety, making a perfect location for a beautiful destination wedding or special event.

Make a Reservation

Our next stay takes us just north of Marsh Harbour to Treasure Cay. The Bahama Beach Club is a top choice for family getaways. This beachfront resort offers a variety of amenities and activities for both adults and kids. You'll find spacious condo-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and private balconies or patios offering ocean views. The resort boasts a beautiful white sand beach for family fun, with complimentary kayaks and paddleboards. Outside the resort, you can hit the nearby golf course, go fishing, or explore nearby islands and cays by boat. And don't miss Nipper’s for a wild time! Two beachfront restaurants serve up delicious Bahamian and international dishes. Ideal for families that want to explore all the Bahamas has to offer, but still enjoy the little luxuries of a resort stay!

Make a Reservation

---

5. Eleuthera and Harbour Island

Good for: Something Unique

Eleuthera is a picturesque island stretching over 100 miles and is celebrated for its pristine pink sand beaches, coral reefs, and lush landscapes. The iconic Pink Sands Beach is renowned for its soft, rosy-hued sands, perfect for beachcombing and sunbathing. Dive into crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral gardens, underwater caves, and diverse marine life. Explore historic attractions like the Glass Window Bridge, Preacher's Cave, and the Queen's Bath.

Harbour Island, a short water taxi ride from Eleuthera, is famous for its charming ambiance and unique attractions. Relax on the stunning Pink Sands Beach, a hallmark of Harbour Island's beauty. Explore the island in style on a golf cart, as cars are not allowed, and discover colorful colonial-style buildings. Dive enthusiasts can explore shipwrecks, underwater caves, and vibrant coral reefs. Take island tours to learn about local history and culture.

Both Eleuthera and Harbour Island offer a tranquil escape and endless opportunities to discover something new!

Starting our stays in Eleuthera, it is a sprawling stretch of wild beauty with rose-colored sands that glow at sunset. The first stay is Eleuthera Retreat, a boutique resort with five cozy one bedroom cottages located in Central Eleuthera on one of the most stunning beach fronts. The Cottages can be booked separately or in groups for up to 10 people. Eleuthera Retreat is adjacent to a romantic 4 star boutique Hotel and allows guest direct access to their restaurant, bar and pool. This unique stay has idyllic Bahamian charm with postcard views right at your doorstep.

Make a Reservation

Our next stop in Eleuthera is what any dream beach vacation is made of. The Beach House is a holiday home situated directly on Eleuthera's famous pink sands. This three bedroom home can accommodate up to six guests. Every detail of this home screams luxury with designer furnishing that still encapsulate The Bahamas beach culture. Enjoy a swim in your private pool that overlooks the gorgeous blue water view. Perfect for your next family trip, this home will be one you won't want to leave.

Make a Reservation

Our final stay takes us over to the captivating town of Harbour Island. This tiny island boasts its own unique colonial charm filled with streets of colorful houses. A no-car island just adds to the vibe making this a perfect option for those that want to get away from hustle and bustle. Coral Sands Hotel is an ideal stay offering everything you need to enjoy this beautiful place. With breezy ocean view rooms, a private beach front, luxury pool and amenities, and numerous dining options including a terrace restaurant and bar and lounge, you can escape reality while still having all the comforts of home.

Make a Reservation

---

In a world filled with stunning destinations, the Bahamas stands out as an unparalleled paradise. With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage, this tropical haven offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure.

What truly sets the Bahamas apart, however, is the sheer variety of amazing stays it offers. From luxurious resorts that pamper you in style to cozy beachfront cottages that provide an authentic island experience, there's something for every type of traveler.

As you explore Nassau's bustling streets, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Exuma Cays, or unwind on the serene shores of the Abacos, you'll find that the Bahamas is not just a destination; it's a collection of unforgettable experiences. So, whether you're planning your honeymoon, a family getaway, or a solo adventure, let the Bahamas enchant you with its charm, and discover your own perfect stay in this tropical paradise.

If you liked this post, save it for later!